Economic Argument Against Segregation
Honorable Justices, I stand before you today to demonstrate that segregation is not merely a violation of constitutional rights, but an economic catastrophe that weakens our entire nation's prosperity and progress.
The Doctrine of Economic Waste
Segregation demands the maintenance of duplicate infrastructure across all public services. Every segregated community must build and operate two school systems, two sets of transportation facilities, two libraries, two parks, and two of virtually every public accommodation. This duplication represents an enormous misallocation of resources that could otherwise fuel economic growth and development. When Louisiana mandates separate railway cars, it forces railroad companies to purchase additional equipment, hire extra personnel, and manage more complex logistics - costs that ultimately burden consumers and shareholders alike.
The Artificial Restriction of Labor Markets
Our nation's greatest resource is its human capital, yet segregation systematically wastes this precious commodity. When we restrict where individuals can work based on race rather than ability, we prevent the most qualified candidates from filling positions across our economy. This artificial constraint reduces productivity, stifles innovation, and limits economic output. A skilled carpenter, teacher, or merchant contributes the same value to society regardless of race - segregation simply ensures that talent remains underutilized. Furthermore, our nation has been built off the backs of our black counterparts; without them we would not have the railways, infustructure, nor even our precious economy that our offspring will have at their advantage and disposal without the negro's forced blood, sweat, and tears.
The Strangulation of Commerce
Economic prosperity flourishes through free exchange and competition. Segregation creates artificial barriers that fragment markets and limit business opportunities. When entrepreneurs cannot serve all customers or hire the best workers, when consumers cannot patronize the most efficient providers, the entire economic system suffers. The "separate but equal" doctrine creates separate but unequal economic opportunities that benefit no one.
The Mathematics of Diminished Returns
Consider the economic impact on a typical Southern city of 50,000 residents, where African Americans comprise 40% of the population. Under segregation, these 20,000 citizens face restricted employment opportunities, earning on average $200 annually compared to $400 for white workers in similar positions. This wage gap represents $4 million in lost purchasing power annually - money that would otherwise circulate through local businesses, generating tax revenue and supporting economic growth. Local merchants lose approximately $800,000 in potential sales yearly, while the city forgoes $120,000 in tax revenue that could fund infrastructure improvements benefiting all residents. We are at a time of major development; steel infrastructure and grander buildings are being put up as we speak. Our African American counterparts are deserving of being able to indulge in all public commodities because they contribute to the infrastructure and economy of this great country. This pivotal period of ingenuity calls for an end to this institution of racism, and a calling for the inclusion of all regardless of race or ethnic background.
The Burden on Business Enterprise
Private businesses operating under segregation face increased operational costs and reduced efficiency. Railroad companies like the East Louisiana Railroad must maintain separate facilities, duplicate services, and navigate complex legal requirements. These additional expenses provide no productive benefit - they represent pure economic loss that weakens American enterprise in an increasingly competitive global marketplace.
Conclusion
Segregation is not merely morally wrong - it is economically destructive. It wastes resources, restricts markets, misallocates talent, and reduces overall prosperity. The Constitution's guarantee of equal protection serves not only justice but economic wisdom. When we allow all citizens to participate fully in economic life based on merit rather than race, we unleash the productive potential that will secure America's economic future.
The choice before this Court is clear: embrace economic efficiency and constitutional principle, or perpetuate a system that impoverishes us all.
AI usage; I used Claude AI to help find research and fact check sources.
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